The formula for the perfect sandwich is simple. Two slices of bread, ideally baked in-house, a tasty sauce generously spread on each side, a protein-rich focal point, and a variety of complementary toppings.
Luckily, there are a number of exceptional sandwiches to eat in Tucson, from vegetarian specialities to every meat-lover’s dream.
Below is a roundup of unique and delicious options to try.
5 Points Market & Restaurant
756 S Stone Ave.
If you’re celebrating Meat Free Monday or opt to go meat free everyday, 5 Points has a delicious option in their Grilled Tempeh sandwich. The sandwich features grilled tempeh and carrot, soy sauce, thinly sliced jalapeño, sharp white cheddar, heirloom tomatoes, pickles, and Vegenaise on baguette.
Also, pictured above, the Caprese sandwich is another phenomenal vegetarian option.
For more information, visit 5pointstucson.com.
47 Scott
47 N Scott Ave.
The Grilled Cheese at 47 Scott stands out for a number of reasons. First, for the use of three different cheeses, including yellow cheddar, fontina and house-made mozzarella. And, second, for the unexpectedly tasty sweet and spicy dipping sauce it’s served with.
The Grilled Cheese is available during brunch, or as a stacked appetizer on the dinner menu and during happy hour.
For more information, visit 47scott.com.
Bison Witches
326 N Fourth Ave.
Bison Witches has been one of Fourth Avenue’s most popular sandwich destinations for years, likely due to the deli sandwiches’ monumental sizes and eclectic choices, as well as for the well-known soup in a bread bowl.
One of the top picks is the Beef & Brie. Imported Brie cheese is melted over the top of thinly sliced roast beef and served with tomatoes, sprouts, and honey-based spicy Russian mustard.
For more information, visit bisonwitches.com.
Bumsted’s
500 N Fourth Ave.
Bumsted’s casual atmosphere and generous portions make it the ideal spot to enjoy a sandwich. Regulars recommend one of the meatloaf sandwich options, like the Dashboard Lights served with Sted’s meatloaf, loaf sauce, mayonnaise, fried egg, and peppered bacon.
Don’t forget to add a side of sweet potato fries.
For more information, visit bumstedstucson.com.
Dickman’s Meat & Deli
7955 E. Broadway Blvd. & 6472 N. Oracle Rd.
If you frequent one of Dickman’s Tucson locations, then you’ve likely tried one of their most popular cuts of meat, the “ugly steak.” The 8-ounce cut, which is found somewhere in the lower sirloin region, certainly isn’t as pretty as a ribeye or porterhouse, but the taste has built quite the following.
Dickman’s adds the Ugly Steak Sandwich Special to its lineup of deli sandwiches every Monday at their Oracle location.
For more information, visit Dickman’s on Facebook.
Feast
It’s no surprise that the Feast grilled cheese is unlike any cheese sandwich you’ve seen before.
Seared Halloumi cheese is paired with honey-roasted eggplant, tomato and red onion on a French roll. The Halloumi, rather than melting into the gooey consistency we often expect in a grilled cheese, softens in the middle and develops a textural crunchy exterior, perfect for biting into.
For more information, visit eatatfeast.com.
Maynards Market & Kitchen
400 N Toole Ave.
Maynards Market sandwich selection may leave you stumped, with plenty of enticing options to choose from.
One original option is the Gila Monster, a unique southwestern meatloaf sandwich served with corn, green chili, poblano mayo, caramelized onions, and white cheddar on sourdough.
For more information, visit maynardstucson.com.
Nico’s Taco Shop
Various Locations
Perhaps one of the most underrated specialities in town, the Mexican torta is an art form all its own. While they’re not uncommon at taco shops and stands across town, one of the best is at local chain Nico’s.
The classic bolillo roll comes piled with carnitas, lettuce, guacamole and pico de gallo.
Roma Imports
627 S Vine Ave.
Roma Imports, a hidden gem located in an industrial area south of Broadway on Vine, offers a menu (and freezers) full of authentic Italian home-style cuisine. And the sandwiches do not disappoint.
Try the Roma Stallion with porchetta, slow roasted rolled pork shoulder with wine and herbs, served with mild or hot Giardiniera.
Also, check out our full feature on Roma, Roma Imports: Italian Charm Just South of Broadway.
For more information, visit romaimports.com.
Serial Grillers
5737 E Speedway Blvd.
If the menu of sandwiches named after real and fictional serial killers doesn’t intimidate you, you’re in for an indulgent treat at Serial Grillers.
A popular sandwich option is the Psycho Ribeye Cheesesteak, served with ribeye, grilled onions, jalapeños, avocado, cilantro mayo, tomatoes and pepperjack cheese.
For more information, visit serialgrillersaz.com.
Time Market
444 E University Blvd.
Any sandwich that starts with Time Market’s signature bread is going to be delicious.
If you simply can’t decide, go with the Roasted Chicken & Tamal for its unique and local flavors. The sandwich, served on pain levain, includes house-made green corn tamal, sliced wood-fired chicken breast, cheddar cheese, avocado, and salsa.
For more information, visit timemarket.xyz.
Vina Baguette
1540 E Broadway Blvd.
If you’re looking to step out of the traditional American sandwich lineup, venture over to Vina Baguette. The Banh Mi Dac Biet, or “Vietnamese Special Sandwich”, features a combination of red pork, ham, pate, butter, carrot, cucumber, daikon, cilantro, and jalapeños. FYI, it’s a food truck.
For more information, visit vinabaguette.com.
Wilko
943 E University Blvd.
There’s that Time Market bread again.
Wilko’s sandwich game truly shines on their lunch menu, with options like the AB&B, a decadent combination of apple, warm brie and basil. You won’t miss meat for a second while enjoying this gooey, crunchy treat.
For more information, visit barwilko.com.
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